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Laser Hair Removal: Is It Right For You?

Written by Naomi West on February 12th, 2010

It is not uncommon for people to be embarrassed by the hair on their body. Women focus much of their attention removing the hair from their legs, armpits, and bikini area, while some men focus it on more obvious areas like their chest, back, and face. There are many ways to remove hair – but none is more efficient than laser hair removal. What started out as a celebrity phenomenon has quickly grown into something bigger and more popular.

Laser removal is a medical process in which a laser is used to remove the hair from various parts of the body. Many people view this as a permanent way to remove the hair – but they have been misinformed. The FDA has approved the use of this technology and states that though it is not permanent it has the ability to slow the growth of the hair. No more shaving every other day to keep the stubble at bay.

There are various types of lasers used during this procedure. Though the machinery might be different the way that they work is the same. The laser will emit a single wavelength of intense light. This light will target the melanin inside of the hair follicle. The heat from the beam of light will kill the hair and cause it to fall out and will prevent it from growing back quickly.

The esthetician will apply a cooling agent to the skin before beginning with the procedure. This will protect the area from the intense amount of heat being applied so that the only thing affected is the hair. This cooling agent is often applied through the tip of a laser removal or it will be sprayed onto the skin.

Most people can go to a day spa, medical spa, or dermatologist to use this procedure. The cost of laser hair removal will vary depending on how thick the hair is and how large the area is. Also many company will charge differently. While some may charge by the hour others will charge per pulse that is used.

Ask your insurance company if they will help to pay for this medical procedure. If they do not cover this then you might be able to find financing through the medical spa or create a payment plan.